After years of speculation and stalled negotiations, Tesla has officially confirmed its debut in the Indian market. The American electric vehicle (EV) giant will open its first showroom — called the Tesla Experience Centre — on July 15 in Mumbai’s upscale Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). This marks a major milestone in Tesla’s long-awaited entry into India.
Mumbai First, Delhi Next
The Mumbai outlet will be followed by another showroom in Delhi, as Tesla lays the groundwork for a limited yet high-profile rollout. However, while the showroom is ready to open doors, the actual launch of Tesla vehicles for Indian customers is still some time away.
EVs to Be Fully Imported — For Now
Tesla’s India operations will begin with fully imported models, as the company has decided against local manufacturing for the time being. This is despite the Indian government’s efforts to attract Tesla with a new EV policy that offers lower import duties for companies willing to invest in domestic production. Tesla, however, has opted to proceed with imports, which will subject its cars to a steep 110% import duty — meaning significantly high sticker prices.
Model Y Expected to Be First Offering
The Model Y is widely expected to be Tesla’s launch model in India. The mid-size electric SUV, which received a mild facelift earlier this year, has already been spotted testing on Indian roads multiple times. According to import records accessed by Reuters, Tesla brought in six Model Y units between January and June — five of the Standard Range and one Long Range variant. These shipments also included charging equipment, suggesting the brand is preparing for initial sales and service infrastructure.
A Strategic Retail Approach
Tesla will continue with its global direct-to-consumer approach by setting up company-owned stores rather than franchising dealerships. Several hires have already been made across roles in sales, service, and management to staff the Mumbai showroom. This controlled retail model will help Tesla maintain a consistent brand experience in the country.
Premium Entry, Mainstream Goals
While Tesla enjoys strong brand recognition and a loyal fan base in India, success will ultimately hinge on pricing and how the brand navigates India’s price-sensitive EV market. Even with a high price tag, initial demand is expected to be strong among early adopters and enthusiasts.
Still, for Tesla to establish a sustainable footprint in India, the company may need to revisit the local manufacturing conversation in the long term — especially if it hopes to compete with the rapidly growing crop of mass-market EVs from homegrown and global players.
Key Highlights:
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Tesla Experience Centre to open in Mumbai’s BKC on July 15
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Second showroom likely to come up in Delhi
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Vehicles to be fully imported, attracting 110% import duty
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Model Y likely to be the first model on sale
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Initial imports worth nearly $1 million, including Superchargers
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Direct-to-customer model to ensure uniform retail experience
India’s EV landscape is about to witness a significant shift, and all eyes will be on how Tesla reshapes consumer expectations in this dynamic and fast-evolving market.
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